The island nation of Madagascar is hoping for a boom in tourism following the success of an animated movie named after the country.

Tourism chiefs have said the long-term prospects for the island's popularity with holidaymakers was promising.

The hit cartoon movie has been called "an incredible chance" by Madagascar's tourism boss Henri Roger.

The film, which features the voice of David Schwimmer, has made $172m (£98m) at US box offices in six weeks.

Also featuring the voices of Ben Stiller and Ali G creator Sacha Baron Cohen, the film follows the adventures of animals who escape from New York zoo to try to reach Madagascar.

The Indian Ocean country's tourism authorities have predicted 600,000 visitors will travel to the island in 2007 - triple the number expected this year.

Madagascar is still recovering from a blow dealt to its tourist industry in 2002, when violence erupted over a disputed presidential election.